Two of Seattle’s biggest industries during the World War I era were lumber (for ships and planes) and shipbuilding (both wood and metal). Shipyards in the U.S. grew in number and size—first to provide ships overseas, then to provide ships for the US government. Seattle’s shipping industry boomed as well, and was one of the most productive in the country. Creating new shipyards meant hiring more workers, who moved into the Seattle area in great numbers. Many had trouble finding places to live because of a lack of housing, but also because landlords raised rents to take advantage of the shortage.
On this poster, drawn by Seattle illustrator and editorial cartoonist George Hager, a woman stands with two children, looking towards a busy waterfront of factories and billowing smokestacks. Behind them is the bow of a ship under construction. The poster reads "Must They Go Homeless? While Seattle's Industries Grow" and "Build A House!"
Physical Description: 1 poster : color ; 23.5 x 17 in.
Additional Information: Digital copy of this item available thanks to funding from a 2016 Institute for Museum and Library Services grant. Metadata updated as part of a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the Library Services and Technology Act, through the Washington State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.
